COVID-19 Disaster Assistance & Resources

Grow Wabash County is in regular contact with leaders at the city, county and state level to receive and share the most up to date information regarding COVID-19. We want to be a point of guidance for those looking for direction in how to protect themselves and their employees, how to keep their business afloat and how to be a helping hand to other people and places in our community that need our support during this challenging time.

Please check this page often for change and updates as this situation develops further and be sure to sign up HERE to get regular email updates from Grow Wabash County.

Directory

Government Updates

Tuesday, 6/2: Holcomb approves $30 million for Small Business Restart Fund

Wednesday, 5/20: Gov. Holcomb announces majority of state to enter Stage 3 on May 22

Tuesday, 5/5: Grow Wabash County awards Duke Energy grant to two Wabash County businesses

Friday, 5/1: Gov. Eric Holcomb announces five-stage "Back on Track" Indiana plan

Thursday, 4/30: City of Wabash, Town of North Manchester to distribute OCRA business grants

Business Resources

"Back on Track" Indiana

Small Business Restart Fund

Critical Industries Hotline

Financing

Grow Wabash County

OCRA Economic Development Relief Funds

CARES Act - Forgivable grants and loans

Paycheck Protection Program

Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Loan Advance

SBA Debt Relief

Wabash Marketplace

SBA Disaster Loan Assistance

Patronicity Crowdfunding

Marketing

Visit Wabash County

Regional

State

Association of Indiana Muncipalities (AIM)

Indiana Chamber of Commerce

National

U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Federal

Federal Stimulus Package

Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201)

Informational Resources

Webinars

Individual Resources

2-1-1 Resource Line

Federal Stimulus Package

COVID-19 Assistance Program (CFWC)

Stay Healthy

Food

SNAP Benefits

Student Lunch Programs

Food Pantries

Senior Lunch

Utilities

Internet Access

Income Assistance

U.S. Department of Labor

Applying for Unemployment

Unemployment FAQ Fact Sheets

Mental Health

Be Well Indiana

The Bowen Center

How You Can Help

Donate Supplies

Shop Local

Wabash Marketplace Membership Sponsorship

Government Updates

Tuesday, 6/2: Holcomb approves $30 million for Small Business Restart Fund

Gov. Holcomb has approved $30 million in federal funding for small business restart grants, to help accelerate the speed of economic recovery in the state. The grants will help small businesses by providing working capital to cover certain expenses related to the global pandemic.

Eligible Indiana small businesses can seek reimbursement for up to 80% of qualified expenses, such as rent/mortgage payments, utilities, lease payments for real or personal property, and safety investments, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and infrastructure improvements.

Eligibility requirements:

• Business must be registered to operate in Indiana
• Business must have had less than 50 employees at of 12/31/2019
• Business must have had less than $5 million in revenue in 2019
• Business must have been profitable in 2019
• Businesses must demonstrate a monthly revenue loss of at least 40% compared to pre-COVID-19 revenues
• Business must not have used funding from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), or Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Small businesses that meet the eligibility requirements can be awarded up to $2,500 or up to $5,000 for each month in which the business demonstrates a revenue loss of at least 40 percent or of at least 80 percent, respectively, with grants issued up to $10,000 per company. Of the $30 million allocated to the fund, at least $5 million will be reserved for certified minority- and women-owned businesses.

To better prepare the necessary information for the application, small business are encouraged to ready the following documentation:

• 2019 State of Indiana Tax Return
• Monthly Profit and Loss Statement (2019 and 2020)
• Form 1040, Schedule C (if sole proprietorship)
• Expense documentation if planning to use funding for:
  
  • Copy of paid mortgage statement or lease agreement
  • Copy of paid utility bills
  • Lease payment receipts for real or personal property
  • Receipt for safety improvements/PPE

Wednesday, 5/20: Gov. Holcomb announces majority of state to enter Stage 3 on May 22

During his regularly scheduled public address on Wednesday,  Gov. Eric Holcomb stated that he felt with "comfort and confidence," that the majority of the State of Indiana will be able to transition to Stage 3 on Friday, May 22.

Stage 3 starting on May 22 will allow:

• Social distancing guidelines still encouraged.
• At-risk populations do not need to quarantine, but should remain cautious.
• Social gatherings of up to 100 people permitted.
• Retail and commercial businesses may open to 75% capacity.
• Movie theaters may open to 50% capacity.
• Gyms and fitness centers may open with restrictions and adherence to social distancing guidelines.
• Playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, community pools and similar venues may open.
• Employers encouraged to continue to work remotely where possible.

Download the full Stage 3 outline.

Tuesday, 5/5: Grow Wabash County awards Duke Energy grant to two Wabash County businesses

Grow Wabash County and Duke Energy are thrilled to recognize two Wabash County businesses that have gone above and beyond to serve their community during this pandemic despite financial challenges.

In Wabash, the grant will be awarded to Cannonball Lanes in recognition of owner Cindy Solloway’s efforts to make and donate face masks. Despite having sewn very little before the pandemic, Solloway felt as though making masks would be a great way to serve her community during this challenging time. So, she brought out the sewing machine and taught herself how to make the masks.

Solloway’s project grew quickly and soon, she became one of the leaders of the “Wabash Strong” Facebook group that has made and donated dozens of masks to essential employees in Wabash County.

Webb Pharmacy in North Manchester will also receive a grant for its innovative actions to fill community needs throughout the pandemic. Not only has the compounding pharmacy provided access to necessary medications and prescriptions to its customers, but it has also become a source for critically needed personal protective equipment (PPE). Owner Harry Webb and store manager, Yi Yang, were able to successfully coordinate with Chinese PPE producers to increase local access to PPE.

The compounding pharmacy has also been making its own hand sanitizer to sell during the pandemic when quality antibacterial products like this have become hard to find.
Webb advised Grow Wabash County that he intends to use the grant funds from Duke Energy to purchase more materials to make hand sanitizer as well as purchase more PPE so that he can donate both to essential businesses and employees that need it.

Read the full press release here.

Friday, 5/1: Gov. Eric Holcomb announces five-stage "Back on Track" Indiana plan

During his daily press conference on Friday, May 1, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced that the majority of the State of Indiana will be able to enter the second stage of "Back on Track" Indiana starting on Monday, May 4. The goal is to have the state fully open by July 4, but all dates are subject to change.

Stage 2 starting on May 4 will allow:

• Social gatherings of up to 25 people, still observing social distancing guidelines.
• Restaurants may allow 50% capacity starting Monday, May 11
• Retail and Commercial and businesses may also allow 50% capacity starting May 4
• Salons, tattoo parlors, spas and the like may open by appointment only starting May 11
• Employees are encouraged to work continue to work remotely if at all possible.
• Places of worship may open starting May 8

**PLEASE NOTE: During Stage 2, Hoosiers are expected to follow all social distancing guidelines. At-risk populations are still encouraged to self-quarantine for their safety.

Thursday, 4/30: City of Wabash, Town of North Manchester to distribute OCRA business grants

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs announced that BOTH the City of Wabash and the Town of North Manchester will each be receiving $250,000 in grant funds to award to local businesses that have a majority of low to middle income (LMI) jobs. The funds may be used by the receiving businesses for working capital, expenses incurred by continuing operations and/or expenses incurred by transitioning the workforce to working remotely.

Applications are due Friday, May 15. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis

City of Wabash businesses apply here.

Application details for the Town of North Manchester to follow.

Read the full press release here.

Monday, 4/27: FSSA announces additions to SNAP benefits program

During Gov. Eric Holcomb's daily press conference on Monday, April 27, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced the launch of two new food assistance programs to respond to the growing need for food assistance due to COVID-19.

The two new programs that will be offered through the FSSA are:

SNAP-Pandemic

This will allow for the FSSA to extend benefits to families with children that receive free or reduced lunches during school, even if they previously did not qualify for those benefits. Families that have not used SNAP benefits prior will receive a new EBT card in the mail with the benefit pre-loaded onto it.

Apply for SNAP benefits here. 

SNAP Delivery

Starting in mid-May, high-risk populations, such as the elderly, will have the option of receiving their SNAP groceries via delivery to their home. More information to follow.

Friday, 4/17: Holcomb extends "Stay At Home" executive order to May 1

During his daily public address on Friday, April 17, Gov. Eric Holcomb stated that he will extend the "Stay At Home" Executive Order to Friday, May 1. Holcomb also stated that there will be some additional revisions to the executive order when he signs it on Monday, April 20.

In the meantime, according to Holcomb, the state is consulting with various departments and sectors around the state to start developing plans for a "safe re-open," to ensure Indiana can open back up for business as soon as it is healthy and safe to do so.

Monday, 4/13: IRS to begin dispersion of Economic Impact Payments

Following the passage of the CARES Act, the IRS has stated that it intends to start rolling out the first round of Economic Impact Payments (commonly referenced as federal stimulus checks) soon. Details regarding the amount taxpayers will receive as well as how and when they will receive it can be found in our Federal Stimulus Package section.

Answers to FAQs regarding the payments can also be directed to the IRS' Economic Impact Payments Information Center.

Friday, 4/3: Holcomb set to extend "Stay At Home" executive order

On Friday, April 3, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced that he intends to extend Executive Order 20-08, better known as the "Stay At Home" Executive Order. The original order was set to expire on Monday, April 6, allowing Hoosiers to start their return to normalcy. In light of the growing number of cases of COVID-19 in Indiana as well as nationwide, Holcomb advised that the executive order would be extended to April 20.

Holcomb has stated that he has opted to address the quarantine order on a bi-weekly basis to allow him and other state officials to re-evaluate often and change course if need be.

Read Executive Order 20-08 here.

Thursday, 4/2: Holcomb signs order closing schools for remainder of the school year

During a press conference on Thursday, April 2, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced that all schools K-12 in Indiana would continue to do remote or "e-learning" days for the rest of the school year. As noted in Executive Order 20-16, schools will only be required to complete 160 total school days as opposed to the traditional 180.  The executive order also discusses teacher licensing processes and other educational matters.

Wednesday, 4/1: SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Indiana Small Businesses Economically Impacted by the Coronavirus

The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to Indiana small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza announced. SBA acted under its own authority, as provided by the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations (CARES) Act that was recently signed by the President, to declare a disaster following a request received from Gov. Eric J. Holcomb on March 17, 2020.

SBA Customer Service Representatives will be available to answer questions about SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program and explain the application process.

For more information about the programs available to local businesses under the CARES Act, see our CARES Act section.

Download the full press release from the SBA here.

Monday, 3/23: Gov. Eric Holcomb Signs "Stay At Home" Executive Order

For more information and updates from Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb regarding state mandates and recommendations pertaining to COVID-19 visit www.in.gov/coronavirus/

Questions regarding COVID-19, how to protect yourself and your loved ones, and how the Stay At Home executive order impacts you can be directed to the state's comprehensive FAQ page.

The City of Wabash has set up an email address for citizens who have questions about COVID-19 as it pertains to operations in Wabash. You can email covid19info@cityofwabash.com for information.

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Business Resources

"Back on Track" Indiana

On Friday, May 1, Gov. Eric Holcomb announced that the State of Indiana would be able to move into Stage 2 of its "Back on Track Indiana" Roadmap starting on May 4. The intention is to have the state fully open and returned to "normal" operations by July 4. (dates subject to change)

Here is a brief overview of current and future stages of re-opening. For the full outline of each stage, please visit the Back on Track Indiana website.

Stage 3 - May 24-June 13 (dates subject to change)

• Social distancing guidelines still encouraged.
• At-risk populations do not need to quarantine, but should remain cautious.
• Social gatherings of up to 100 people permitted.
• Retail and commercial businesses may open to 75% capacity.
• Movie theaters may open to 50% capacity.
• Gyms and fitness centers may open with restrictions and adherence to social distancing guidelines.
• Playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, community pools and similar venues may open.
• Employers encouraged to continue to work remotely where possible.

Download the full Stage 3 outline.

Stage 4 - June 14-July 3 (dates subject to change)

• Social distancing guidelines still encouraged.
• At-risk populations asked to remain cautious when in public, high-traffic spaces.
• Face masks optional.
• Social gatherings of up to 250 people permitted.
• Retail and commercial businesses may open at full capacity.
• Restaurants may open to 75% capacity.
• Bar seating permitted at 50% capacity.
• Bars and nightclubs may open to 50% capacity.
• Cultural, entertainment, and tourism businesses may open at 50% capacity. This includes museums, zoos, bowling alleys, aquariums, and like facilities.
• Recreational sports leagues and tournaments permitted.
• Employers may resume onsite work instead of remotely.

Download the full Stage 4 outline.

Stage 5- July 4 and Beyond (dates subject to change)

• Be mindful of social distancing guidleines.
• At-risk populations encouraged to be cautious in public spaces.
• Social gatherings of over 250 people permitted.
• K-12 school operations to be discussed, determined.
• Businesses and venues allowed to open at full capacity.

Download the full Stage 5 outline.

Download the full "Back on Track" Roadmap.

Small Business Restart Fund

Gov. Holcomb has approved $30 million in federal funding for small business restart grants, to help accelerate the speed of economic recovery in the state. The grants will help small businesses by providing working capital to cover certain expenses related to the global pandemic.

Eligible Indiana small businesses can seek reimbursement for up to 80% of qualified expenses, such as rent/mortgage payments, utilities, lease payments for real or personal property, and safety investments, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and infrastructure improvements.

Eligibility requirements:

• Business must be registered to operate in Indiana
• Business must have had less than 50 employees at of 12/31/2019
• Business must have had less than $5 million in revenue in 2019
• Business must have been profitable in 2019
• Businesses must demonstrate a monthly revenue loss of at least 40% compared to pre-COVID-19 revenues
• Business must not have used funding from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), or Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Small businesses that meet the eligibility requirements can be awarded up to $2,500 or up to $5,000 for each month in which the business demonstrates a revenue loss of at least 40 percent or of at least 80 percent, respectively, with grants issued up to $10,000 per company. Of the $30 million allocated to the fund, at least $5 million will be reserved for certified minority- and women-owned businesses.

To better prepare the necessary information for the application, small business are encouraged to ready the following documentation:

• 2019 State of Indiana Tax Return
• Monthly Profit and Loss Statement (2019 and 2020)
• Form 1040, Schedule C (if sole proprietorship)
• Expense documentation if planning to use funding for:
  
  • Copy of paid mortgage statement or lease agreement
  • Copy of paid utility bills
  • Lease payment receipts for real or personal property
  • Receipt for safety improvements/PPE

Businesses needing assistance compiling this documentation can contact the Wabash County SBDC rep, Wes Shie, shiew@pfw.edu or 260.481.0500 for guidance.

Critical Industries Hotline

The State of Indiana has launched a call center specifically to answer business- and industry-related questions about COVID-19 from Indiana businesses and employers.

To connect with the Critical Industries Hotline, call 877-820-0890 or email covidresponse@iedc.in.gov.

REMINDER: This hotline is specifically for business and industry leaders. Those looking for answers to questions regarding unemployment or personal concerns can be directed to the state's FAQ page.

Financing

Grow Wabash County

Revolving Loan Fund program

In an effort to support Wabash County’s business community as it experiences unexpected closures and decreased revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Grow Wabash County will be offering loans to help small businesses with necessary business expenses that they may be facing as a result of the ongoing crisis.

Grow Wabash County will award Rapid Response Loans as well as Traditional Revolving Loan Fund loans to help businesses bridge the gap between this time of low revenue and when operations eventually return to normal.

Get more information about the loans and how to apply by visiting Grow Wabash County's Revolving Loan Fund page.

OCRA Economic Development Relief Funds

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs announced that BOTH the City of Wabash and the Town of North Manchester will each be receiving $250,000 in grant funds to award to local businesses that have a majority of low to middle income (LMI) jobs. The funds may be used by the receiving businesses for working capital, expenses incurred by continuing operations and/or expenses incurred by transitioning the workforce to working remotely.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Location must be in the City of Wabash zoning limits
• Target is for-profit businesses hospitality, food and beverage, personal care, business services, small manufacturers, retail sectors, and etc.
• Business must have employees. Sole proprietors and independent contractors do not qualify.
• Applicable businesses must employ 51% or more low to moderate income employees based on the federal guidelines for households. Applicants will need to complete LMI surveys for every retained employees to verify household income.
• Business grantees must utilize the grant funds for working capital, to pay expenses incurred by continuing operations, and/or to pay expenses incurred by transitioning the workforce to working remotely during the COVID19 crisis.

Applications are due Friday, May 15. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.

City of Wabash businesses apply here.

Details for the Town of North Manchester can be received by emailing Adam Penrod at apenrod@nmanchester.org.

Business in a Box

Grow Wabash County is offering Business in a Box grants that allow for local businesses to spend up to $3,000 in professional services offered by other local businesses. The funds can be used for a variety of operational costs that involve our local professionals such as hiring a marketing firm to help revamp your website for e-commerce or working with a local CPA to evaluate your finances to determine your business' next steps forward.

Download the Business in a Box application.

CARES Act

Congress approves updated CARES Act Economic Relief Plan. Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act aka the CARES Act authorizes emergency loans to distressed businesses by provides funding for forgivable bridge loans and additional funding for grants and technical assistance. There are three main components to CARE Act for businesses defined below:

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

The Paycheck Protection Program is designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on payroll by providing each small business a loan up to $10 million for payroll and certain other expenses. If all employees are kept on payroll for eight weeks, SBA will forgive the portion of the loans used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. Up to 100 percent of the loan is forgivable.

Apply: Businesses must apply through an approved SBA Lender.

SBA Approved Lenders in Wabash County:

• Bippus State Bank, 260.982.6200
• Crossroads Bank, 260.563.3185
• First Merchants Bank, 260.563.4116
• Mutual Bank, 574.267.2001* For the Warsaw office.
• Flagstar, 260.563.1116
• Woodforest National Bank, 260.563.4625
• First Financial Bank, 844.828.7740
• First Farmers Bank and Trust, 260.563.1196

The complete list of Wabash County SBA-Approved Lenders can also be found here.

Eligibility:

• Business must have been operating since prior to February 15, 2020
• Must be a small business which is defined as less than 500 employees per physical location
• Nonprofits must have a 501 (c)(3) status to quality

Download the Paycheck Protection Program application.

Download the Paycheck Protection Program FAQ Sheet courtesy of Sen. Mike Braun's office.

More information can be found at sba.gov/coronavirus.

Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) & Grant Program 

Small business owners in all U.S. states are eligible to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan advance of up to $10,000. The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. The interest rate is 3.75 percent for small businesses. The interest rate for private non-profit organizations is 2.75 percent. SBA offers loans with long-term repayments in order to keep payments affordable, up to a maximum of 30 years and are available to entities without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship.

Funds will be made available within three days of a successful application, and this loan advance will not have to be repaid. Maximum $2M with rates starting at 2.75% with 30 year terms.

Apply: Fill out the online application.

Eligibility: Small business defined as 500 or fewer employers (independent contractors, sole proprietors, and all included) and non-profits are eligible. Eligibility for EIDL will also be based on the financial impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the business.

More information can be found at sba.gov/coronavirus

**NOTE you can get both Economic Injury Disaster Loan and Paycheck Protection Program as long as they aren’t paying for the same things!**

For an organized overview of both PPP & EIDL, Indiana State University has made public this helpful visual guide. Download here.

Small Business Debt Relief

The SBA Debt Relief program will provide a reprieve to small businesses as they overcome the challenges created by this health crisis.

Under this program:

• The SBA will also pay the principal and interest of new 7(a) loans issued prior to September 27, 2020.
• The SBA will pay the principal and interest of current 7(a) loans for a period of six months.

More information to come at sba.gov/coronavirus

For additional information regarding these various loan programs, U.S. Rep Jackie Walorski's office has put out a comprehensive fact sheet. Download here.

Wabash Marketplace

Wabash Marketplace has announced that it will open up Business Interruption Loans for Wabash Marketplace members. Loans of up to $5,000 for a 24-month term will be made available. Email Wabash Marketplace or call 260-563-0975 for more information about this program.

SBA Loan Assistance

SBA Express Bridge Loans

The Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program allows small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 with less paperwork. These loans can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing and can be a term loans or used to bridge the gap while applying for a direct SBA Economic Injury Disaster loan.

If a small business has an urgent need for cash while waiting for decision and disbursement on Economic Injury Disaster Loan, they may qualify for an SBA Express Disaster Bridge Loan.

Terms are for up to $25,000 with a fast turnaround. This bridge loan ill be repaid in full or in part by proceeds from the EIDL loan

Find an Express Bridge Loan Lender via SBA’s Lender Match Tool or by connecting with your local SBA District Office.

Small Business Interruption Loans

The Small Business Interruption Loan program will be conducted as part of the 7(a) Loan program, with the same qualifications for businesses. To qualify, on average in the last three years, a business must have less than 500 employees and bring in less than $7.5 million in revenue. However, non-profit organizations may also qualify for Small Business Interruption Loans.

Loans of up to $10 million can be taken and used for a wide array of expenses including payroll support, mortgage payments, and other debt obligations. These loans do not have borrower or lender fees, and they are 100 percent government guaranteed. Loan repayment is deferred for up to one year.

All Small Business Interruption Loans are eligible for forgiveness in an amount equal to the payroll cost and costs related to debt obligations for the period of March 1, 2020 through June 30, 2020. The amount of the loan eligible for forgiveness will be reduced proportionally the number of employees laid off during this period relative to the borrowers prior employment levels.

Businesses looking for additional capital may also utilize the SBA's Lender Match online referral tool to connect with SBA-approved lenders.

Other resources made available through the SBA include Counseling and Advisement, Contracting help and additional information pertaining to COVID-19.

Patronicity Crowd-Funding

Harness the power of the public to keep our local business community afloat!

For all non-matched crowdfunding campaigns that are launched prior to May 15th, Patronicity will be waiving all fees. In the interest of allowing businesses to access those funds as soon as possible, the site will also allow rolling funds distribution before the campaign ends.

Click here to get involved with Patronicty's Small Business program and start preparing for a brighter tomorrow.

Marketing

Visit Wabash County

Visit Wabash County is offering up guidance and support for local businesses who want to boost their online and social media presence during this low-traffic time.

Here are some "pro-tips" from Visit Wabash County about how to stay connected with your customers:

1. Highlight customers/donors/contributors via appreciation posts.
2. Share the history of why your business exists
3. Highlight employees via appreciation posts
4. Highlight a neighboring business
5. List top 5 things you like about your work, your business, your community
6. Need more help, reach out to Visit Wabash County, we promise to do our best to assist you with your marketing needs, questions or concerns.

Regional

Check back for updates from northeast Indiana as they become available.

State

Association of Indiana Muncipalities (AIM)

For a general overview of the current COVID-19 situation and how to address concerns about the illness in your workplace, the Association of Indiana Muncipalities (AIM) has shared a helpful presentation containing some of the most common questions and concerns that have arisen regarding COVID-19. You can download AIM's COVID-19 presentation here, or on the Grow Wabash County Documents page.

Indiana Chamber of Commerce

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has a comprehensive Coronavirus Updates page that includes resources for Indiana business owners looking for guidance on how to address the many concerns that arise during an economic disaster such as COVID-19.

National

U.S. Chamber of Commerce

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has compiled a variety of resources geared towards the business community to help them determine the best courses of action during disaster situations, including a Business Preparedness Checklist to determine what employers and companies need to do to handle challenging times like this head-on.

Resilience in a Box

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, in partnership with the UPS Foundation, the World Economic Forum, and Disaster Resistant Business Workgroup, have compiled resources and information that share best practices and help business owners prepare for disasters such as COVID-19 and how to weather the storm of those disasters.

With checklists, workbooks and advanced toolkit materials, Resilience in a Box, will help our business community survive difficult times such as this one.

Learn more about these resilience tools by visiting: www.uschamberfoundation.org/resilience-box.

Federal

For an overview of the three-phase approach that Congress is taking to address COVID-19, Sen. Mike Braun's office has shared a comprehensive fact sheet. Download here.

Federal Stimulus Package aka Economic Impact Payments

Congress has successfully passed the CARES Act, which includes language that approves the dispersion of federal stimulus checks, or Economic Impact Payments, to United States citizens. The U.S. Department of Internal Revenue Service will begin to disperse these funds soon and have released helpful information to inform citizens of if/when they will receive a federal stimulus check and how much money that check will be worth.

According to the IRS:

• U.S. residents will receive the Economic Impact Payment of $1,200 for individual or head of household filers, and $2,400 for married filing jointly if they are not a dependent of another taxpayer and have a work eligible Social Security number
  • $500 per child will also be awarded to each household
• In order to receive the full amount, adjusted gross income (AGI) for the household must be:
  • $75,000 for individuals
  • $112,500 for head of household filers and
  • $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns
• Taxpayers will receive a reduced payment if their AGI is between:
  • $75,000 and $99,000 if their filing status was single or married filing separately
  • 112,500 and $136,500 for head of household
  • $150,000 and $198,000 if their filing status was married filing jointly

How to ensure you receive your payment:

• No additional action is needed by taxpayers who have already filed their tax returns this year for 2019. The IRS will use this information to calculate the payment amount.
• For taxpayers that haven’t filed yet for 2019, but filed a 2018 federal tax return, the IRS will use their information from 2018 tax filings to make the Economic Impact Payment calculations.

Additional information and FAQs can be found on the IRS' Economic Impact Payment Information Center.

Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201)

Paid Leave

American businesses with fewer than 500 employees have access to funds to provide employees with paid leave, either for the employee’s own health needs or to care for family members. This helps ensure no one has to choose between going to work and protecting their health or the public health.

• Employees of eligible employers can receive two weeks (up to 80 hours) of paid sick leave at 100% of the employee’s pay where the employee is unable to work because the employee is quarantined, and/or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, and seeking a medical diagnosis.
• An employee who is unable to work because of a need to care for an individual subject to quarantine, to care for a child whose school is closed or child care provider is unavailable for reasons related to COVID-19, can receive two weeks (up to 80 hours) of paid sick leave at 2/3 the employee’s pay.
• An employee who is unable to work due to a need to care for a child whose school is closed or child care provider is unavailable for reasons related to COVID-19, may in some instances receive up to an additional ten weeks of expanded paid family and medical leave at 2/3 the employee’s pay.

Employer Assistance

• Employer Reimbursement: Eligible employers will receive a dollar-for-dollar credit for the paid sick leave and family leave that they provide under this program. Self-employed individuals receive an equivalent credit.

• Prompt Payment for the Cost of Providing Leave: Many small businesses in the restaurant, hospitality, tourism, manufacturing, and other industries have major concerns about cash flow. To protect these businesses, the Treasury will use its regulatory authority to allow businesses to utilize employment tax withholdings that have already been deposited to pay sick leave wages. In the event that such withholdings are insufficient, the Treasury will implement a system to accelerate payment of credits to cover such costs.

• Eligible employers who pay qualifying sick or child care leave will be able to retain an amount of the payroll taxes equal to the amount of qualifying sick and child care leave that they paid, rather than deposit them with the IRS.
• The payroll taxes that are available for retention include withheld federal income taxes, the employee share of Social Security and Medicare taxes, and the employer share of Social Security and Medicare taxes with respect to all employees.
• If there are not sufficient payroll taxes to cover the cost of qualified sick and child care leave paid, employers will be able file a request for an accelerated payment from the IRS. The IRS expects to process these requests in two weeks or less. The details of this new, expedited procedure will be announced the week of March 23.

• Small Business Protection: Businesses with less than 50 employees can be eligible for an exemption from the sick leave and family leave provisions where those requirements may create serious financial hardship. The exemption mechanism will be managed by Secretary Scalia and the Department of Labor.

• The exemption will be available on the basis of simple and clear criteria that make it available in circumstances involving jeopardy to the viability of an employer’s business as a going concern. Department of Labor will provide emergency guidance and rulemaking to clearly articulate this standard.

Informational Resources

• The Indiana Small Business Development Center is continuing to offer free business counseling and will also help businesses navigate the application process for disaster relief loans. Click here to find and contact the SBDC rep for your region.
• SCORE, a network of experienced business mentor volunteers, has updated its website to include resources and access to remote mentoring for businesses that need a little guidance facing the challenges caused by COVID-19.
• CO.Starters, a network of business supports for entrepreneurs, has published a Recovery Guide to help small businesses and entrepreneurs "reimagine and rebuild" in the wake of economic disaster. The website has information and links to multiple resources to answer your most pressing questions and put you on the path to recovery.
• Restore Your Economy has shared additional information about Economic Planning and Recovery on their website.

Webinars

• Roadmap to a Health Re-Opening: Greater Fort Wayne Inc and the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership have launched a series of live and pre-recorded virtual info sessions to help businesses prepare to re-open their businesses on a strong, safe foot that ensures the health and safety of their customers and employees.  If you are unable to attend the live session, register any way and a recorded version of the session will be sent to you. Here are the upcoming live webinars:
  • Early Childhood Education: Friday, May 22 at 9 a.m.
  • K-12 Education: Friday, May 22 at 11 a.m.
  • Higher Education: Wednesday, May 27 at 11 a.m.
  • Extracurricular Activities/Athletics: Wednesday, May 27 at 1 p.m.

• COVID-19 Weekly Update for Employers: Barnes & Thornburg, LLP, hosts a weekly webinar every Wednesday at 2 p.m. to provide employers with updates on the virus and its impact on human resource-related topics as well as guidance for employers as they make tough decisions in response to COVID-19. Click here to register for the next webinar as well as catch up on past webinars in the series.

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Individual Resources

This can be a stressful time for many families as parents try to balance work and caring for their child while schools remain closed, or figuring out how to make ends meet due to reduced hours at work.Wabash County has multiple resources available to give a hand up to those who may need it during these times.

The Indiana State Department of Health has published a brief overview of resources made available to Hoosiers. View that reference guide here.

2-1-1 Resource Line

2-1-1 is a free, confidential service that can connect Indiana residents with local resources that fit their needs. The line is operating 24/7.  You can also find resources on the 2-1-1 website.

COVID-19 Assistance Program - Community Foundation of Wabash County

The Community Foundation of Wabash County has developed the COVID-19 Assistance Program to provide short-term financial assistance to people who are out of work and are in need of support and essential employees that continue to work and are in need of childcare for their family.

The expenses covered by these grants may include:

1. Rent and Utility payments
2. Medical expenses
3. Childcare expenses for children aged 0-12 for people that continue to work as an essential employee

Wabash County citizens who meet the above criteria can request applications for assistance by contacting REACH in North Manchester, Wabash Area Ministerial Association (WAMA), or their respective Wabash County township trustee.

The Community Foundation is also asking for donations to help support this assistance program. Those who are able and interested in donating may do so on the Community Foundation website or by mailing a check to the Community Foundation of Wabash County with "Community Foundation COVID-19 Assistance Program" included in the memo line. This contribution may also be tax-deductible.

Questions about the program or how to donate can be emailed to melissa@cfwabash.org.​​

Stay Healthy

Of course, the most important thing to keep in mind during this time is to keep yourself, your employees, your colleagues and your loved ones healthy and safe. The Indiana State Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control have made public many recommendations to help prevent the spread of any potential illnesses.

The CDC recommends:

• Washing hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.
• Stay home if you have a fever or other flu-like symptoms, cough or cold.
• Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Regularly cleaning high-traffic and high-touch surfaces in your home or business.
• Avoid large public gatherings or high-traffic areas.

A full list of ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 as well as additional information can be found at: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus or on the Indiana Department of Health website, www.in.gov/isdh.

Food

SNAP Benefits

On Monday, April 27, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced the launch of two new food assistance programs to respond to the growing need for food assistance due to COVID-19.

The two new programs that will be offered through the FSSA are:

SNAP-Pandemic

This will allow for the FSSA to extend benefits to families with children that receive free or reduced lunches during school, even if they previously did not qualify for those benefits. Families that have not used SNAP benefits prior will receive a new EBT card in the mail with the benefit pre-loaded onto it.

Apply for SNAP benefits here. 

SNAP Delivery

Starting in mid-May, high-risk populations, such as the elderly, will have the option of receiving their SNAP groceries via delivery to their home. More information to follow.

Student Lunch Programs

Every public school corporation in Wabash County has a plan in place to provide students with access to meals while the schools remain closed until May 1.

Follow the links below to get information about lunch programs for each school district.

Wabash City Schools Cafeteria Facebook page posts regularly about pick-up and drop-off sites around Wabash for families to pick up food.

MSD of Wabash County's website includes food service details on its COVID-19 Updates page. Information is also shared on the MSD of Wabash County Facebook page.

Manchester Community Schools is posting regular updates on its Facebook page regarding food service and pick-up locations for students and their families.

The Access Youth Center is also opening up to distribute lunch bags at various community locations. Check the Access Youth Center Facebook page for information on pick-up times and locations.

Blessings in a Backpack Wabash County is working in collaboration with the schools to ensure students that qualify are able to receive food. Their Facebook page is also a good source for other options around the county for families concerned about food insecurity during this difficult time.

Food Pantries

Be sure to call ahead to ensure hours or days have not changed.

LaFontaine

• LaFontaine United Methodist Food Pantry, 2 W Kendall Street LaFontaine, IN, 765-981-4021
  • Open Monday –Thursday, 10 a.m. - Noon
  • Must be a resident of LaFontaine and Liberty Township.
  • May use the pantry one time per month.

Lagro

• Lagro Community Church, 730 Main Street Lagro, IN 46941, 260-571-4639
  • Open third Saturday of each month, 9 - 10 a.m.

North Manchester

• Fellowship Food Pantry, 500 N Front Street North Manchester, IN, 260-982-7127
  • Open Thursdays 2 - 5 p.m.
• Manchester Meals on Wheels, 260-982-6010

Roann

• Roann Food Pantry, Roann Town Hall, 110 N Chippewa Street Roann, IN, 765-833-2100
  • Open Wednesdays 2 - 4 p.m.
  • Available for families within 7-mile limit of Roann

Wabash

• Friends in Service Here (F.I.S.H.), 770 ½ Hill Street Wabash, IN, 260-563-5151
  • Open Tuesday – Friday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Living Well in Wabash County Community Cupboard, 239 Bond Street Wabash, IN 46992, 260-563-4475
  • Open Monday and Tuesday 3 - 5:30 p.m.
  • Open Thursday and Friday 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
  • Will be CLOSED on Friday, April 10th in observance of Good Friday
• Area Five WIC, 1149 Cass Street Wabash, IN 46992, 260-563-4310
  • Open Tuesday 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. AND 2 - 7 p.m.
  • Open Wednesday 8:30 a.m. - Noon AND 12:30 – 4:30 p.m.
  • Open Friday 8:30 a.m. - Noon

Senior Lunch

Provided by Area Five through Living Well in Wabash County, Wabash County residents over the age of 60 can receive a drive-thru or delivered lunch Monday through Friday. Area Five is providing hot meals to-go on Mondays and Wednesdays 11 - 11:30 a.m. with frozen meals to take home for Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Call Winchester Senior Center, 260-563-4475 to order senior meals. Call before Wednesday at noon for Monday and Tuesday meals. Call before Monday at noon for Wednesday, Thursday and Friday meals.

Utilities

NIPSCO has suspended service shut-offs for non-payment for the time being. The company will also be waiving late payment fees through May 1 and offering flexible payments plans for those who need it.

Duke Energy has announced its plans to waive late payment fees and fees for returned payments starting Saturday, March 21. They will also discontinue service disconnections for unpaid bills for the time being. Click here for updates from Duke Energy regarding service during COVID-19.

Heartland REMC has also announced that it will suspend disconnections due to non-payment. Heartland REMC encourages any of its customers that may have trouble paying their bill to inform them of the hardship.

Internet Access

In light of workplaces going remote and students participating in E-Learning, we are aware that access to reliable, affordable internet is important. Here are a few resources to help your household get connected.

The National Locator Tool for Low-Cost Internet Service Offers allows people to punch in their zip code and answer questions to determine if they qualify for low-cost internet. It has been recently updated with new offers created by major providers in light of COVID-19. Click here to use the Locator Tool.

Access from AT&T : One family member must be eligible for SNAP to qualify. AT&T has also advised it will not charge data overage fees during this time.

Spectrum Internet Assist : Based on eligibility for National School Lunch program. Charter is now offering free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have service through Spectrum. To enroll, call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees are waived. There are no data caps.

Internet Essentials from Comcast : Free to new customers. New customers will receive 60 days of complimentary Internet Essentials service, which is normally available to all qualified low-income households for $9.95/month. Data overages will not apply and Xfinity WiFi hotspots will still be open and operational for public access.

Cox Connect2Compete : For families with school-aged children who are enrolled in low-income assistance programs. For a limited time, the first month of service will be free, $9.95/month thereafter.

Lifeline : provides a subsidy to HUD-assisted residents for phone and/or Internet service.

Income Assistance

As business revenue numbers dip due to state-mandated closures or reductions in services, many employers may have to make the difficult decision to reduce hours or even decrease the size of its staff to stay afloat. This can be financially stressful for many part-time and hourly workers. If such a decision needs to be made at your business, please connect your employees with these various resources for support.

Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation

As of Thursday, April 16, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development will begin the implementation of the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program as approved by the CARES Act. As part of this compensation, $600 in federal funds will be added to monthly allocations for Hoosiers receiving unemployment insurance benefits due to COVID-19.

Payments will be paid retroactively to the week ending April 4, 2020 and will be payable until July 25, 2020.

Questions regarding the unemployment insurance process can directed to the DWD's FAQ page.

U.S. Department of Labor

The Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor has an extensive list of Frequently Asked Questions for both employers and employees regarding staff shortages, job termination and other complications that may arise due to the closures and reduction of services recommended for various industries.

Applying for Unemployment

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) allows for people who are currently out of work to apply for unemployment insurance benefits. Further information and access to online filing can be found here.

Unemployment FAQ Fact Sheets

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development has also updated its list of Frequently Asked Questions about Unemployment Insurance. Click the hyperlinks below to download the FAQ sheets. All of these FAQs and more information regarding unemployment insurance can also be found on the DWD website.

• Claimant FAQs for COVID-19 work-related issues
• Employer FAQs for COVID-19 work-related issues
• Preguntas Frecuentes Formuladas por temas relacionados con el COVID-19 para los Solicitantes

Mental Health

Be Well Indiana

The State of Indiana has launched a new website to help Hoosiers access mental health resources. BeWellIndiana.com features an assortment of information from regular updates about COVID-19 to a self-assessment to determine what sort of assistance you may need. The website also offered information about how to access crisis counseling or other state departments that could help them through this difficult time.

Visit Be Well Indiana

Bowen Center

The Bowen Center has transitioned many of its services to allow Hoosiers to access mental health services over the phone or by secure video conferencing during this time of social distancing. They also have helpful blogs and information about how to cope with the unexpected stress brought on by this pandemic.

Visit The Bowen Center website to find out how they can help you through this challenging time.

Bowen Center Student Assistance Program (SAP)

In a particularly stressful times such as this, students can have a tough time adjusting or coping. The mental health services afforded to Wabash County students while school is in session through SAP and the Bowen Center are still available for Wabash County students learning remotely.

Student looking to utilize their SAP benefits and talk with a professional counselor can do so by phone. To set up a counseling appointment, students or their parent/guardian can call 1 (800) 342-5653. More information about SAP can also be found here.

Talking about COVID-19 with kids

With a situation like this where words like "pandemic" and "disaster" are used regularly, it can be a scary, confusing things for children or students to come to terms with. The Bowen Center encourages caregivers, parents and teachers to reference "Talking With Children: Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks" from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) to learn how to navigate those conversations.

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How You Can Help

Donate Supplies

The nurses and doctors and caregivers standing at the front lines of the COVID-19 outbreak need the community's help to restock their dwindling supplies of personal protective equipment. Please see below for an updated list of locations, their needs and instructions on how to donate.

Autumn Ridge Rehabilitation Centre is in need of donations for personal protective equipment such as N95 and ventilator masks. If you have donations you can call Nathan Jackson at 260-563-8402 or bring them to the main entrance of the facility.

Parkview Wabash Hospital is asking for donations of new, unused N95 or dust masks as their supplies run low. If you have donations, please bring them to Emergency Department entrance and ask for Marilyn in Administration.

If you are a company that has an abundance of these personal protective items and are interested in donating them to our local healthcare providers, email info@growwabashcounty.com and we will get you connected with those who need them.

Make & Donate

Check out the Wabash Strong Facebook Group to learn how to sew protective face masks at home.

Shop Local

Even in the face of Gov. Eric Holcomb's 'Stay At Home' Executive Order, Wabash County is still OPEN for business. Here's how you can help them stay that way:

• Order carry-out or delivery from your favorite local restaurants!
  • The Paper of Wabash County recently compiled and published a list of Wabash County restaurants offering carry-out and delivery. Download the complete list here.
  • Check out the Eat & Drink page on the Visit Wabash County's to find out which of your favorite spots in Wabash County are offering takeout and delivery!
  • Curb-Side Pick Up is still up and running for businesses to encourage revenue and shopping local during this time. The service is free for businesses through Wabash Marketplace. Register here.

• Buy gift cards! A lot of our businesses will be hit hard by low revenue and minimal traffic due to the State's 'Stay At Home" recommendations. Get a jump start on buying gifts for birthdays, holidays or "just because" while also supporting your favorite local businesses through this difficult time.

Wabash Marketplace Membership Sponsorship

Wabash Marketplace is also offering up a unique way for people to support small businesses in Downtown Wabash by donating funds to sponsor a Wabash Marketplace membership for a business in need! Click here to sponsor a downtown business!

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